Definition
ψάλλω
[in LXX chiefly for זָמַר pi. (Judges 5:3, Psalm 7:17, al.), also for נָגַן pi. (1 Samuel 16:16 ff, al.) ;]
1. to pull, twitch, twang (as a bowstring, etc.; Æsch., Eur., al.), hence,
2. absol.,
(a) to play a stringed instrument with the fingers (Hdt., Plat., al.);
(b) later, to sing to a harp, sing psalms (LXX); in NT, to sing a hymn, sing praise: James 5:13; with dative of person(s), Romans 15:9 (LXX), Ephesians 5:19; dative instr., 1 Corinthians 14:15.
Hebrew words it translates
The Hebrew words that the ancient Greek translation of the Old Testament renders as ψάλλω:
- זָמַרza.mar“to sing”always
Usage patterns
Occurrences
5 total
- Romans 15:9ψαλῶ · I will sing hymns…so that the Gentiles may glorify God for His mercy. As it is written: “Therefore I will praise You among the Gentiles; I will sing hymns to Your name.”
- 1 Corinthians 14:15ψαλῶ · I will sing; ψαλῶ · I will also singWhat then shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my mind. I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my mind.
- Ephesians 5:19ψάλλοντες · make musicSpeak to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your hearts to the Lord,
- James 5:13ψαλλέτω · He should sing praisesIs any one of you suffering? He should pray. Is anyone cheerful? He should sing praises.